I've driven past Punjab Cafe in downtown San Jose several times and always wondered how good their…read moreIndian buffet was. A friend of mine who's Indian mentioned that this place was pretty good, so I figured I'd give it a try. I'm used to eating at Indian buffets closer to home, but sometimes it's worth driving a little farther to try something different. I'm glad I did! Don't judge a book by its cover because some of their dishes don't look very appetizing, but man do they taste good! We arrived close to 2pm, near the end of their lunch buffet. There weren't too many selections, maybe 6 or so entrees, but EVERY SINGLE DISH was good to very good! I thought maybe I was just hungry, but my wife agreed. That's pretty impressive for a buffet! Here is my take: Food (4.5 stars) * Chana chicken (or some variation of chana with garbanzo beans) was surprisingly one of my favorites! My wife doesn't like garbanzo beans, and I'm not particularly crazy about them either. Since most of the other dishes were chicken and goat curry, she decided to give it a try. To our surprise, it was delicious! So good that I saved it for my last few bites. That's usually when I eat my favorite dishes! (5 stars) * Goat curry was another favorite. The curry sauce was excellent with a very slight hint of gaminess from the goat meat. Not overpowering at all. In fact, that's how I like my goat curry. It was flavorful enough that I saved it alongside the chana dish for my final bites. (4.5 stars) * Tandoori chicken doesn't look particularly appealing. It actually looks a little dry from sitting in the buffet tray, but it tastes very good! Dip it into their green chutney and it becomes even better. Another example of why appearances can be deceiving. (4.5 stars) * Green chutney was excellent! It has a minty flavor with a slight hint of sweetness. I found myself adding it to just about everything, especially the tandoori chicken. (5 stars) * Palak paneer is another dish that doesn't look very appetizing. But again, it tastes good! I'm beginning to see a pattern here. (4 stars) * Naan bread was fresh, hot, and very buttery. Pretty good naan, and they bring it directly to your table. We couldn't finish ours and the gentleman working there told us we could take the leftovers home. Nice! (4.5 stars) * The buffet is around $19 and change per person, which is a pretty good value considering the quality of the food. Sometimes I'd rather have 6 good dishes than 15 mediocre ones! ~ The buffet presentation could definitely use some improvement. Several dishes looked like they'd been sitting there for a while. We did arrive near the end of lunch, so perhaps that's why. Regardless, everything tasted much better than it looked. ~ One large piece of goat meat was a little tougher than I would've liked. The flavor was excellent, but the meat could've been more tender. Service (5 stars) * One thing that really stood out wasn't even related to our meal. While we were eating, a gentleman came by who appeared to be someone in need. The man working there, who I believe might be the owner, asked him how many naan breads he wanted. One or two? The gentleman said two. He handed him two naan breads and said, "God bless you." From what I observed, it appeared he gave them to him for free. I thought that was a genuinely kind gesture. You don't see that every day, and it left a lasting impression on me. * When we were paying, the same gentleman suggested that my wife sign up for their loyalty program. All she had to do was provide her email, and we received $5 off our meal! He didn't have to mention it, especially when we were already ready to pay. That's another example of someone going out of his way to take care of customers. * He also allowed us to take home our leftover naan. Small gesture, but it's these little things that make a restaurant memorable. Ambiance (4.5 stars) * Restaurant is clean and comfortable. Nothing overly fancy, but a nice place to enjoy an Indian buffet. * We arrived around 1-1:30pm and there were only a couple of other customers. It was quiet, and we had a relaxing lunch. * Their bathroom was SPOTLESS! I mean, for a restaurant in downtown San Jose, I was genuinely impressed. I've been to plenty of downtown establishments where the bathrooms leave a lot to be desired. This one was so clean that I joked I might stop by just to use their restroom if I'm ever in the area! (5 stars) Overall, I'm giving Punjab Cafe 5 stars! It's not because they have the biggest buffet or the fanciest presentation. It's because every dish we tried was good to very good, the price was reasonable, and most importantly, the people running this place seem genuinely kind. Sometimes the best restaurants aren't the ones with the prettiest food. Punjab Cafe is a perfect example. Don't judge a book by its cover!

Firstly, I have to give credit where it's due. I believe the owner was making a point of walking…read morethrough the small, quaint dining room, checking in on guests and making everyone feel welcome. That personal touch didn't go unnoticed--bravo, sir. I visited on a Saturday at lunchtime. When I arrived there was only one other guest, but the restaurant gradually filled with what appeared to be regulars. Many walked in, confidently chose their usual tables, and headed straight for the buffet. Throughout my meal, I also noticed a steady stream of takeout orders leaving the kitchen, which I took as another positive sign that the restaurant has built a loyal following. The one unavoidable downside has nothing to do with the food: parking. Downtown San Jose's parking situation is every bit as challenging as people say. There were a handful of metered spaces in front of the restaurant, but they looked questionable, and several nearby vehicles seemed to be taking their chances with the free grace period. The buffet selection is on the smaller side, but what it lacks in quantity it largely makes up for in quality. There were eight hot entrées, and each delivered satisfying flavor. The butter chicken featured tender pieces of chicken breast in a rich, mildly spiced gravy, and I was pleasantly surprised that every piece remained moist. The tandoori chicken, mostly thighs, was cooked exceptionally well--juicy, flavorful, and never dry. I also enjoyed the chili chicken. While it's more Indo-Chinese than traditionally Indian, Punjab Cafe executes this fusion classic very well. My only real disappointment was the naan. It was overly thick, chewy, tough, and somewhat brittle, with a texture that reminded me more of a pizza crust than fresh naan. The lone employee working the front of the house deserves recognition. She continuously refilled water glasses, cleared plates, replenished the buffet, and kept the dining room clean and organized--all while maintaining a smooth operation. The weekend buffet was $19.99 (plus tax) and included self-serve hot chai. On my visit, dessert options were rice pudding and semolina halwa. Overall, if I find myself in the area again, I would gladly return. It's a no-frills, very casual buffet that focuses on serving flavorful, satisfying food rather than putting on a show--and sometimes that's exactly what you're looking for.

Mylapore Express at Westgate Mall has become one of our favorite spots for authentic South Indian…read morefood. The food is consistently excellent and tastes wonderfully fresh and authentic. The Thattai Idli is a standout, and the vada is crisp on the outside and perfectly soft inside. The Benne Dosa is terrific, as is the Bisi Bele Bath. And don't miss the Rava Dosa, which they serve on weekdays -- absolutely delicious. Their filter coffee deserves a special mention. The traditional version is excellent, but I particularly love that they make a vegan filter coffee with oat milk. It's rich, flavorful, and one of the best dairy-free versions of South Indian filter coffee I've had. Great food, authentic flavors, and a menu that keeps us coming back. Highly recommended!

The food is delicious, specially wonderful is the sambar and chutney refills they offer as well as…read morethe filtered coffee, but customer service is abhorrent. Went there with friends I hadn't seen in a while. Was a weekday evening so the restaurant wasn't very busy. Went to order food and was rudely asked where is the token. This was my first time here and I didn't know the process. I told him my table number, even bringing the little number holder, but that wasn't enough, he gruffly me to go back to the hostess, who wasn't much help either. Got in line behind my friend and I guess that did the trick, but the other person taking orders was also rude. BUT the real kicker was about an hour and a half into our meal, someone (manager?) came to our table and told us that we've been here too long and asked us to leave. We looked around and saw there were a few empty tables, also there were no lines, so didn't understand the disrespect. Never have I had this experience dining out, and this is incredibly poor customer service. The servers replenishing the sambar refills were great, however. Giving it 2 stars because the food was good, but won't be returning, and will stick to our wonderful Madras Cafe.

Butter Chicken * The…read moresauce has the perfect consistency -- rich, smooth, and well balanced. * The melted butter brings everything together, enhancing the buttery flavor while adding a lightness that keeps the dish from feeling too heavy. * The chicken is charred to perfection. The smoky char adds a deep, layered flavor that complements the creamy sauce and helps refresh the palate with each bite. * The chicken is incredibly tender, making the texture just as impressive as the flavor. Homemade Garlic Naan * The first bite starts with a satisfying crispiness, followed by a soft, fluffy interior. * It's more than just garlic butter -- the diced garlic adds a bold, fresh kick, while cilantro and parsley bring a bright, herbaceous freshness that lifts the flavor and keeps it from feeling heavy.

Went on Friday night for dinner without any reservations. Got seated immediately. They seem to have…read morechanged their name to Royal Haveli. They had a new menu as well. And Their staff is always pretty friendly. We ordered a variety of food. Chili Fish - It was meh. Not sweet thankfully but didn't taste appetizing Chicken Fried Rice - This was good Chicken Malai Kabab - This was good too Tandoori Roti - The size seems to have reduced than how it was before Chicken Do Pyaza - It was not how it's usually made. Won't order it again.

Food and service were good! Been there a couple of times and both times I was quite happy with the…read moremeals. It can get busy, depending on when you go, though I have never had to wait for a table, which is a plus. Tikka fish was delish, butter chicken, eggplant dish, nungu dessert, chili cauliflower. The restaurant is clean and prepped well for meals. Will definitely return- this maybe my new go to place!

Updated review post the name change after several take out orders and one dine in experience…read more Rusi has deals through DoorDash and we ended up trying several dishes because of that. Though they have a lot of BOGO offers, the quantities are very less making the deal far less attractive than what it seems. Coming to the food itself, it's pretty average, the dum biryani had tandoori style red color chicken topped with flavored rice. Not dum biryani from any angle. The mild chicken curry we ordered for take out was literal fire and burnt through my tummy. We then saw a post for unlimited Thursday night chaat and made our way there inspite of being a weekday. After getting seated we were told they decided not to have it due to lack of sufficient patrons. Needless to say we were disappointed but ending up ordering a few dishes. We got chowmein, parotta and some chaat. All the items were good and well made. They also gave us a Bangalore style peas chaat on the house, it tasted exactly like the version my grandma makes. So this was a very decent meal. Overall lot of inconsistency and mixed experiences.

This quaint little cafe is now our new favourite…read more Ambience - is very cute and pleasantly decorated. Kids have little toys and puzzles to be engaged Food - love the puff. If you have eaten savoury puff in India you will love the puff here and to my non Indian friends - try this place once try their savoury puff Service and staff - very warm and friendly !!! Restrooms and clean and well maintained as well !! Me and husband go here quite often now - our regular order - masala Chaya and veg puff We have also tried and loved pazam puri, veg cutlet We will explore more and share our updates here.

When this cute little place first opened, I thought it was just tea and pastries, so I didn't think…read moremuch of it. I'm usually not a big fan of either, but a friend introduced me--and oh my goodness! They actually have a full food menu, and their food AND pastries have me coming back again and again and again! I haven't tried their drinks yet, but everything I've eaten so far has been delicious. It makes me so happy to see a small business thriving, especially one that keeps me coming back for more! A little tip for quicker to-go pickup: order ahead directly through their website instead of DoorDash! Don't underestimate this cute little spot! Their food is seriously addictive. Definitely recommend giving them a try!

Incredible food and very friendly service! Would definitely return. Went to the lunch buffet and…read morehad many great options

I wish I could give more than 5 !!…read more Love the ambience, love how they present their food and the variety of the buffet!!!! Not to mention that the taste is great as well. We wish we live closer! But we will definitely be back soon. FYI, the name is not what your think And gratuity was already included so no need to give more but I am pretty sure they wouldn't mind it if you add extra

I ordered the beef steak with rice and my bf order the chicken suqaar with rice. The food took a…read morewhile to come out but when it did arrive, I immediately noticed the generous portions. Both meats were juicy, flavorful, and tender but if I had to pick one it would hands down by the beef steak.

This was my first time trying Somalian food, so I didn't know what to expect except to come in with…read morean empty mind and to be hungry. My party was welcomed with open arms. The staff was willing to walk us down their menu to help us decide on what to order. Pretty much all of the pictured items looked delicious. I had the beef plate with rice. The flavors were pretty familiar to me and the portions were massive. I really enjoyed my meal. I'm really looking forward to eventually coming here and in addition to seeing more of what Somalian cuisine is all about!

Indian restaurant in Silver Creek area with strong flavors and spices in each dish! Does get busy…read moreon a weekend lunch. Have been here for dine in and take out. Mango lassi was full of mango flavor with right consistency. Chai was solid and you add your own sugar adjustments. Chicken 65 has some crispy parts to it and spiced amazingly. Chicken was also juicy and tender. It was my first time trying the kothu Parotta and it was delicious and liked the crispy bits of it. The Parotta on its own was soft and fluffy. I got regular butter masala but with mild medium but didn't really taste the spice so I'd go spicy next time if you like spicy. The biryani was good with soft chicken pieces but needs the sauce with the rice. On the drier side for me. Great service here. Small dining area. All their plates and utensils are gold. Have some outdoor seating if you order takeout. Would come back if I'm craving Indian food!

It's been more than four years since I actively wrote a Yelp review. I stopped because I felt that…read moredining experiences are personal, and everyone should have the opportunity to form their own opinion. Yesterday, however, I changed my mind after having one of the most disappointing dining experiences I've had at Saapaaduu. I've tried to dine here a couple of times over the past few years, but it was always crowded, so we ended up leaving. Since we were in the area yesterday, we decided to give it another try. We arrived around 8:00 PM with our family, including kids, and waited about an hour for a table. Even though I added my phone number to the waitlist, I never received any updates, and it didn't seem like people were being called in the order they were added. By the time we were seated, it was already 9:00 PM. We ordered a few dishes. The appetizers--Chicken 65, Chicken Lollipop, and Pallipalayam Chicken--arrived one by one. About 30 minutes later, our server informed us that they were out of Seeraga Samba Chicken Biryani and only had Vijayawada Chicken Biryani available. Since it was already late and we had no real alternative, we agreed. It then took another 20 minutes for the biryani to arrive. Unfortunately, the Vijayawada Chicken Biryani was nothing like a biryani. It was simply dry basmati rice with chicken gravy sitting at the bottom of the bowl. The rice was dry, and the dish lacked the flavor and texture you'd expect from a biryani. I took one spoonful and left the rest--I didn't even want to take it home. The Pallipalayam Chicken tasted nothing but same chicken curry in Vijayawada biryani with coconut chunks and didn't have the authentic flavor I was expecting. Overall, nothing stood out. The food was mediocre at best and did not justify the long wait. The restaurant itself is quite small. The person at the front desk mentioned that it accommodates around 40 guests at a time, which seems about right for the 8-10 tables inside. Given the limited seating and the consistently long wait times, I strongly feel they should implement an online reservation or waitlist system. Families with young children shouldn't have to stand outside for an hour without updates. It almost feels like the long line has become part of the restaurant's image rather than something they're trying to improve. I genuinely wanted to like this place after hearing so much about it over the years, but unfortunately, the overall experience--from the wait, to the service, to the food--was disappointing. I apologize for leaving a negative review, as that's not something I usually do. However, I believe sharing an honest experience is fair to both the restaurant and future customers. I sincerely hope the restaurant takes this feedback constructively and improves the overall dining experience.

Home made style of comforting South Indian food. Food was…read moretasty and not very greasy. Will def come back again.

Went with my husband to check out Meenakshi Bhavan for lunch- we were very pleasantly surprised,…read moreseemed very authentic . Loved the onion rava dosa- wonderful texture, chewy and crispy. Got to try a variety of dishes on the thali- my favorite was the dal and okra. Samosa chaat portion size was generous and tasty. Service was good. Definitely want to go back.

The avocado and paneer galotii was amazing! Our server, Priya, was pleasant and gave good…read morerecommendations for dishes when asked. Overall great food and great atmosphere, would highly recommend!

Very nice ambiance!!! Food was flavorful and everyone was super sweet and hospitable.read more